Dealerships are not a commodity
Part II.
So here we are, just more than 2 years since AutoConversion was conceived. During this time I have seen blogs and bloggers come and go and I have seen some wonderfully grow. Jeff Kershner for example has experienced tremendous success with DealerRefresh which I think has given numerous people the inspiration to pursue their own dreams and ideas. This is a beautiful thing and he should long be known for his contributions to the industry.
I have also seen networking sites lift some of the industry’s iconic leaders to a deserved “rock star” status. People like Ralph Paglia and David Kain who have highly active discussion audiences. Now even DrivingSales is gaining force. It truly is great to see the auto industry getting its feet wet in the arena of Web 2.0.
Now think of what is to come. There is much hype for the auto industry in 2009. Dealers are hungry to sell cars. Can you believe it? They’re hungry!
Seriously though I think the dealers that are preparing for the upswing with the right tools could be in for a real treat. Tools such as blogs and social networking sites, email, video, and SEO. The coming year should present an opportunity for dealers to take back the purchase mantle if you know what I mean.
The past 10 years have belonged to the customer. Dealers became a commodity along with their automobiles. The Internet gave purchasing power to car shoppers. No more.
This year, car buyers will research automobiles AND dealerships, and dealers will be responding with the right tools. It’s already happening, but not at mass critical. That’s what 2009 will bring. True relational marketing.
Anyway, what do I know. I am just babbling. Happy New Year Everyone! Take care of your neighbor.
